Antimicrobial Potential of Maggot Excretions/Secretions From Blowflies (Diptera: Calliphoridae)

ABSTRACT Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health challenge, highlighting the need for alternative and effective antimicrobial strategies. Blowfly maggots, traditionally used to manage chronic, infected wounds, exert antimicrobial effects through their excretions/secretions (ES). This review synthesises and integrates current evidence on the antimicrobial spectrum of maggot ES, the antimicrobial compounds isolated to date, their proposed mechanisms of action, and the key factors influencing ES antimicrobial efficacy. Together, these insights aim to inform and guide ongoing efforts toward harnessing the antimicrobial potential maggot ES, particularly in response to the global challenge of rising AMR.